Starting in 1984, the Leprechaun Run is one of Philadelphia’s first races of the season, and originally offered a 5-Mile Race and 2-Mile Fun Run/Walk. In 2017, the Leprechaun Run expanded to include a Lucky 7-Mile Race in addition to the other two distances. The Leprechaun Run is an event to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics Pennsylvania’s Philadelphia local program (SOPA-Philadelphia). Funds raised from the Leprechaun Run support operating costs for nearly 1,000 athletes that participate in  Special Olympics activities across the city of Brotherly Love. Special Olympics PA holds more than 250 competitions and training events each year. All training and competition opportunities are provided free of charge to the athletes and their families, enabling everyone to experience the benefits of Special Olympics that extend well beyond the playing field.